Most people don’t like thinking about death, but doing some advanced planning can make you and those you love feel much better about the process. This is especially true when it comes to cremations. As is the case with traditional burials, there are a variety of options when it comes to cremation—and some investments to be made, as well. If you or someone you know is looking into cremations in the Whiteland, IN, area, rest assured there are professionals prepared to handle your needs with care. In the meantime, you may wish to give the planning phase some additional thought and assure everything is handled in a prompt and effective fashion.

The first item that should be on your agenda is the kind of event you may wish to associate with your cremation. There are a few options, including the possibility of holding a more traditional funeral service before the actual cremation takes place. If you wish to hold such a ceremony, you may wish to select a location that’s meaningful to you and your family or otherwise something convenient for any guests you’d like in attendance. You may instead wish to hold a memorial service after the cremation has occurred, potentially deciding in advance where and when the ceremony should be held. Alternatively, you may prefer there to be some kind of service involving the interment of ashes themselves, particularly if you wish to have them buried or entombed. These are some of the more basic decisions you should consider well in advance.

You may also want your final wishes to include input regarding what should become of your ashes once you’re cremated. There are a wide range of options including everything from burial, scattering of the ashes, display in an urn or having the ashes themselves converted into some kind of artwork or otherwise and unconventionally housed.

Finally, you should give some thought to the kinds of products you may wish to purchase. Keep in mind that this may simplify the responsibilities of loved ones who will have otherwise been asked to make these kinds of decisions. Some of the items to consider include a casket (in the event of a traditional funeral service), the container in which you wish the ashes to eventually be placed and the possible use of burial space or vault (along with a grave marker) in the event you want the ashes stored accordingly.

At this juncture, you may want to think about costs, as well. Though cremation may generally be less expensive than a traditional burial, it’s certainly possible for expenses to add up. You can always pay for those costs (or at least some of those costs) in advance, again removing a potential burden from the shoulders of loved ones.

If you’re looking into Whiteland, IN, cremations, consider reaching out to the O’Riley - Branson Funeral Service & Crematory. We are prepared to address any questions or concerns you may have in a compassionate and dignified fashion. You may visit us at 6107 S East St., Indianapolis, IN 46227 or place a phone call to (317) 787-8224.